With summer drawing to a close, many are starting to think about how and where to store garden furniture and equipment safely ready for next year.
The right storage solution can help to ensure your garden furniture stays in perfect condition for years to come, so getting it right is important. Whether you’ve purchased new furniture and just don’t know where to start or your current solution just isn’t quite cutting it, stay tuned as we’ll be covering top tips and tricks for storing your garden items this winter.
#1 Clean & dry
This first one may seem obvious but you’d be surprised how often this step is skipped. Before you even think about storing any garden items – be it furniture, games or tools – you need to ensure it’s clean and dry. A simple way of putting it is to store your items how you’d want them to be found i.e. clean and ready for use.
We’d recommend using a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt and debris before starting your deep clean. If you’re looking to avoid harsh chemicals, a simple warm water and washing up liquid solution should remove the majority of mud and stains from your garden furniture – just ensure you dry everything thoroughly before storing!
Top tip: if you notice any rust on your metal furniture or hardware, simply leave it to soak in some white vinegar for about an hour, wipe away and repeat if necessary! It works great for removing stubborn stains from plastic furniture too!
#2 Wear & tear repairs
Whilst garden furniture is generally pretty durable, naturally, sometimes it will require some maintenance (especially after the ‘summer’ we’ve had this year!). Before storing any garden furniture, take the time to check your items for any signs of wear. Be it tightening loose screws, patching over tears or ordering replacement parts, now is the time to act to prevent further damage and save yourself a big headache further down the line.
#3 Location, location, location
Finding the right space to store your garden furniture can make all the difference. And whilst a simple sheltered solution such as a shed or garage may seem like enough, more often than not, it won’t be. To ensure your outdoor furniture remains in optimal condition for years to come, you need to consider everything from damp and mould to pests.
If your storage solution is prone to moisture and dampness, you may want to consider investing in a dehumidifier to help reduce the risk of mould. Storing smaller items in sealed boxes and using covers for larger pieces of furniture can also help to provide an added layer of protection.
Did you know our storage units come complete with their own dehumidifier and full insulation as standard? Try our online estimator to unlock an instant no-obligation unit estimate.
#4 Be on the lookout
If for any reason your storage solution should be compromised, it’s best to nip things in the bud early to prevent further damage. Schedule regular check-ins to keep an eye out for signs of moisture, pests or theft, that way you can work to fix the issue before it becomes a big problem.
We offer 24/7 CCTV surveillance, ultra-secure unit padlocks and ANPR-controlled site access for total peace of mind.
By investing a little extra time now, you can save yourself a lot of money in the long run. Taking a few extra steps this winter will ensure you can make the most of your outdoor furniture for many summers to come.
Ready to upgrade your storage solution? Get a free quotation today to start your journey towards better self-storage with Beyond!